Bob Mackie's Death Certificate Reveals Fatal Head Injury After Fall
The legendary fashion designer's official cause of death has been updated to reflect a head injury sustained days before his passing.
Fashion designer Bob Mackie died from a fatal head injury sustained in a fall, according to his death certificate, which contradicts initial reports attributing his death to pneumonia. Mackie, 87, passed away on September 14.
The certificate lists the cause of death as a subarachnoid hemorrhage and blunt head trauma. The injury occurred on September 11 at the home of his longtime design director, Joseph McFate. Mackie died three days later at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, California.
A representative for Mackie clarified that the designer had been battling pneumonia both before and after his hospitalization. "A healthcare professional was with him when he fell," the representative stated, adding that Mackie was suffering from pneumonia prior to and following his hospital stay. Mackie was cremated on September 17, and his remains were scattered at sea off the coast of San Diego County.
His death was announced on September 14 via a statement on his social media accounts that read, "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a fashion and costume designer, which is all he ever wanted to do. His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world."
Mackie was renowned for designing iconic looks for numerous celebrities, including Cher, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Beyoncé, and Dolly Parton. In late August, after Parton's death, Mackie paid tribute to the country music icon on Instagram, calling her a "lovely soul and spirit" and "a joy and pleasure to dress."